The life stories of these "daughters of Africa" are sometimes playful and sometimes painful - but always awe-inspiring in their truth and candor. Sweeping across history and over continents, they portray the energy, creativity, and resilience of black women such as Ana Quirot, a Cuban runner who overcame life-threatening burns to triumph in the Olympic games; Yelena Khanga, a black Russian woman who hosts the most popular television show in Russia and performs with a comedy troupe in New York; and Lulu Shite, the diamond-studded madam of Mahogany Hall in New Orleans.Organized by field of endeavor, chapters include African Queens; Slaves Who Refused to Bow; Freedom Fighters, Rabble Rousers, and Audacious Advocates; Powerful Politicos and Bold Businesswomen; and Sassy Songbirds, Dazzling Dancers, and Talented Thespians.